How to Cook Chicken in Microwave: Quick & Safe Techniques for Delicious Results

ByMelissa Smith Updated

How to Cook Chicken in Microwave?

To cook chicken in the microwave, you can use two methods.

Method one involves trimming the chicken breasts, placing them in a microwave-safe 9-inch glass pie plate, drizzling with chicken broth, covering with microwave-safe plastic wrap, and microwaving on high for 6 to 8 minutes, turning after 4 minutes.

Let the chicken sit covered until ready to serve.

For method two, mix orange juice, butter, pepper, and salt in an 8 x 8-inch microwave-safe baking dish, microwave on high for 2 minutes, place the chicken in the dish, spoon the liquid mixture over the chicken, cover with wax paper, microwave on high for 12 minutes, and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Remember to be cautious of steam when removing plastic wrap, and let the chicken sit for a few minutes after microwaving to continue cooking.

Key Points:

  • Two methods for cooking chicken in the microwave
  • Method one:
    • Trim chicken
    • Place in glass pie plate
    • Drizzle with broth
    • Cover with plastic wrap
    • Microwave on high for 6-8 minutes
  • Method two:
    • Mix orange juice, butter, pepper, and salt in baking dish
    • Microwave on high for 2 minutes
    • Add chicken
    • Spoon mixture over chicken
    • Cover with wax paper
    • Microwave on high for 12 minutes
  • Let chicken sit covered until ready to serve
  • Be cautious of steam when removing plastic wrap
  • Allow chicken to sit for a few minutes after microwaving to continue cooking

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that microwaving chicken can actually be healthier than other cooking methods? Since microwaving allows you to cook without adding any extra oil or fats, it can help reduce the overall calorie content of your chicken dish.

2. Chicken cooked in the microwave tends to retain more of its nutrients compared to other cooking methods. This is because microwaving involves shorter cooking times and less exposure to high temperatures, which helps to preserve the vitamins and minerals in the meat.

3. While it’s generally safe to cook chicken in the microwave, it is essential to ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria or germs. Using a food thermometer can help you accurately measure the temperature of your chicken.

4. Microwaving chicken can make the meat more tender and juicy compared to other methods. The process of microwaving helps to lock in the moisture, resulting in a deliciously succulent texture.

5. If you’re planning to use the microwave to cook chicken, it’s recommended to cut the meat into smaller, evenly-sized pieces. This ensures that the chicken cooks more evenly and helps prevent any parts from being undercooked or overcooked.

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Avoiding Dry Chicken In The Microwave

Microwaving chicken can be a convenient and time-saving method of cooking, but it often results in dry chicken due to the release of juices. However, with a few simple techniques, you can achieve moist and flavorful chicken right in your microwave.

To avoid dry chicken, it’s essential to start with the right cut of meat. Chicken breasts or tenderloins are ideal for microwaving as they tend to stay moist even in the microwave. Trim any excess fat from the chicken before cooking.

Improve the flavor and moisture of microwaved chicken by following these tips:

  • Marinate the chicken before cooking to add flavor and tenderize the meat. Use a mixture of your choice, such as lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
  • Cover the chicken while microwaving to trap the steam and prevent the meat from drying out. Use a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe paper towel.
  • Rotate and flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent hot spots. This will help to cook the chicken evenly and avoid dryness.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after microwaving before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken.
  • Enhance the flavor of microwaved chicken by serving it with a sauce or topping of your choice. Consider options like barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a homemade salsa.

Remember, microwaving chicken can be a quick and convenient cooking method, but by following these tips, you can enjoy moist and flavorful chicken right in your microwave.

  • Start with the right cut of meat (chicken breasts or tenderloins)
  • Trim excess fat before cooking
  • Marinate the chicken
  • Cover while microwaving
  • Rotate and flip halfway through cooking
  • Let chicken rest before cutting into it
  • Serve with a sauce or topping of your choice

Proper Resting Time After Microwaving

After microwaving your chicken, it is crucial to let it sit for a few minutes to continue cooking. This resting time allows the residual heat to distribute evenly throughout the meat, ensuring that it reaches the recommended safe temperature.

The FDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. While the chicken will continue to cook after removal from the microwave, it is still essential to check the temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Caution With Steam And Plastic Wrap

When removing plastic wrap from the microwaved dish, exercise caution as steam can escape and cause burns. To prevent this, make a small vent in the plastic wrap to release steam gradually. Avoid placing your face or hands directly above the dish when removing the plastic wrap.

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Cutting Or Shredding The Cooked Chicken

Once your chicken has cooled, you have two options for preparing it: cutting it into pieces or shredding it with a fork. Which method you choose depends on the texture you desire.

  • Cutting the chicken into pieces is ideal for dishes that require individual portions, such as salads or stir-fries. This allows for easy serving and mixing with other ingredients.

  • Shredded chicken, on the other hand, is excellent for sandwiches, wraps, or casseroles. It creates a softer and more cohesive texture that blends well with other flavors.

To shred the chicken, simply use two forks to pull the meat apart into thin strands. This technique works especially well for chicken breasts or tenderloins, as they are naturally tender and easy to shred.

  • Remember to let the chicken cool before attempting to cut or shred it.
  • Using two forks to shred the chicken helps to create thin and even strands.
  • Shredded chicken is versatile and can be used in various dishes.

“Once your chicken has cooled, you can choose to either cut it into pieces or shred it with a fork, depending on the desired texture.”

  • Cutting into pieces is ideal for individual portions in salads or stir-fries.

  • Shredded chicken is great for sandwiches, wraps, or casseroles.

  • To shred chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart into thin strands.

  • Chicken breasts or tenderloins work best for shredding due to their tenderness.

Microwave Cooking Times For Different Cuts

Depending on the cut of chicken and your microwave’s power, cooking times may vary. For tenderloins, which are the quickest to cook, microwave on high for approximately 5 minutes. For chicken breasts, microwave on high for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once during the cooking process.

It’s important to note that microwaves can vary, so it’s best to check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure thorough cooking. Additionally, the chicken will continue to cook during the resting time, so factor that in when determining the total cooking time.

Storing And Freezing Shredded Chicken

If you have leftover shredded chicken, you can store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded chicken for 2-3 months in an airtight container or a zippered plastic bag.

When freezing shredded chicken, divide it into smaller portions that you can easily thaw as needed. This way, you can avoid thawing and refreezing the entire batch, which can affect the texture and taste.

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By following these tips and techniques, you can avoid dry chicken, ensure proper cooking, and achieve mouth-watering results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook raw chicken in the microwave?

While it is technically possible to cook raw chicken in a microwave, it is not recommended due to the potential for uneven cooking. Microwaves can leave cold spots in the meat where bacteria can survive, so precautions such as covering the food, stirring it during cooking, and ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature are necessary to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. It is generally safer and more effective to cook chicken using conventional methods such as baking, grilling, or pan-frying.

How long does it take to cook a raw chicken in the microwave?

The cooking time for a raw chicken in the microwave can vary depending on the size and type of chicken. On average, a raw chicken can take around 12-15 minutes to cook in the microwave. However, it is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly by using a food thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Additionally, if cooking frozen chicken in the microwave, it is recommended to add an extra 5-8 minutes to allow for proper thawing and cooking.

How do you keep chicken from drying out in the microwave?

To prevent chicken from drying out in the microwave, there are a few simple steps to follow. First, arrange the chicken pieces in a microwave-safe dish, ensuring that smaller pieces are placed towards the center and larger ones towards the outer edge. Next, add a tablespoon or two of water to the dish, as this will contribute to keeping the chicken moist during the reheating process. Lastly, cover the dish with a damp paper towel or plastic wrap, which will help to retain the moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out. Following these steps will ensure that your reheated chicken stays tender and flavorful.

What happens if chicken starts to cook in microwave?

If the chicken starts to cook in the microwave, it can lead to uneven cooking and the potential for overcooking or burning certain parts of the chicken. The high heat from the microwave can quickly cause the chicken to dry out, resulting in tough and unappetizing meat. Additionally, the microwave’s cooking process may not evenly distribute the heat throughout the chicken, leaving some parts undercooked and others overcooked. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the defrosting process and ensure that the chicken does not start cooking prematurely to preserve its taste and texture.